Method and apparatus for generating route exceptions

ABSTRACT

An approach for providing mapping information and route information based on exception information received from various users travelling within a common area is described. A navigation system processes travel information associated with one or more devices for comparison against predetermined route information. The navigation system also determines one or more exceptions based, at least in part, on the comparison. The predetermined route information, mapping information, or a combination thereof it then caused to be updated based, at least in part, on the processing of the one or more exceptions.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/201,378 filed Mar. 7, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 13/075,439, filed Mar. 30, 2011, the entirety ofwhich is incorporated herein.

BACKGROUND

Service providers and device manufacturers (e.g., wireless, cellular,etc.) are continually challenged to deliver value and convenience toconsumers by, for example, providing compelling network services. Onearea of interest has been in providing users with navigation and mappingservices by way of a mobile device. For example, many devices areequipped with global positioning sensors, navigation and mappingapplications for enabling users to be presented navigation data such asmaps, travel directions, route details and the like. To ensure thenavigation or mapping application remains up-to-date, updated navigationdata must be periodically downloaded from a navigation or communicationservice provider associated with the mobile device. Unfortunately, thenavigation data is static, resulting in the generation of maps, traveldirections and other details that do not account for real-timeconditions that affect a traveler's ability to reach a destination(e.g., adverse road conditions, accidents, congestion) by way of apredetermined route.

SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Therefore, there is a need for an approach for providing navigationinformation based on route exception information received from varioususers travelling within a common area.

According to one embodiment, a method comprises processing and/orfacilitating a processing of travel information associated with one ormore devices for comparison against predetermined route information. Themethod also comprises determining one or more exceptions based, at leastin part, on the comparison, wherein the one or more exceptionsrepresents at least one deviation by at least one of the one or moredevices from at least one route indicated in the predetermined routeinformation. The method further comprises processing and/or facilitatinga processing of the one or more exceptions to cause, at least in part,updating of the predetermined route information, mapping information, ora combination thereof.

According to another embodiment, an apparatus comprises at least oneprocessor, and at least one memory including computer program code, theat least one memory and the computer program code configured to, withthe at least one processor, cause, at least in part, the apparatus toprocess and/or facilitate a processing of travel information associatedwith one or more devices for comparison against predetermined routeinformation. The apparatus is also caused to determine one or moreexceptions based, at least in part, on the comparison, wherein the oneor more exceptions represents at least one deviation by at least one ofthe one or more devices from at least one route indicated in thepredetermined route information. The apparatus is further caused toprocess and/or facilitate a processing of the one or more exceptions tocause, at least in part, updating of the predetermined routeinformation, mapping information, or a combination thereof.

According to another embodiment, a computer-readable storage mediumcarries one or more sequences of one or more instructions which, whenexecuted by one or more processors, cause, at least in part, anapparatus to process and/or facilitate a processing of travelinformation associated with one or more devices for comparison againstpredetermined route information. The apparatus is also caused todetermine one or more exceptions based, at least in part, on thecomparison, wherein the one or more exceptions represents at least onedeviation by at least one of the one or more devices from at least oneroute indicated in the predetermined route information. The apparatus isfurther caused to process and/or facilitate a processing of the one ormore exceptions to cause, at least in part, updating of thepredetermined route information, mapping information, or a combinationthereof.

According to another embodiment, an apparatus comprises means forprocessing and/or facilitating a processing of travel informationassociated with one or more devices for comparison against predeterminedroute information. The apparatus also comprises means for determiningone or more exceptions based, at least in part, on the comparison,wherein the one or more exceptions represents at least one deviation byat least one of the one or more devices from at least one routeindicated in the predetermined route information. The apparatus furthercomprises means for processing and/or facilitating a processing of theone or more exceptions to cause, at least in part, updating of thepredetermined route information, mapping information, or a combinationthereof.

In addition, for various example embodiments of the invention, thefollowing is applicable: a method comprising facilitating a processingof and/or processing (1) data and/or (2) information and/or (3) at leastone signal, the (1) data and/or (2) information and/or (3) at least onesignal based, at least in part, on (including derived at least in partfrom) any one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed inthis application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention.

For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is alsoapplicable: a method comprising facilitating access to at least oneinterface configured to allow access to at least one service, the atleast one service configured to perform any one or any combination ofnetwork or service provider methods (or processes) disclosed in thisapplication.

For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is alsoapplicable: a method comprising facilitating creating and/orfacilitating modifying (1) at least one device user interface elementand/or (2) at least one device user interface functionality, the (1) atleast one device user interface element and/or (2) at least one deviceuser interface functionality based, at least in part, on data and/orinformation resulting from one or any combination of methods orprocesses disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment ofthe invention, and/or at least one signal resulting from one or anycombination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application asrelevant to any embodiment of the invention.

For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is alsoapplicable: a method comprising creating and/or modifying (1) at leastone device user interface element and/or (2) at least one device userinterface functionality, the (1) at least one device user interfaceelement and/or (2) at least one device user interface functionalitybased at least in part on data and/or information resulting from one orany combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this applicationas relevant to any embodiment of the invention, and/or at least onesignal resulting from one or any combination of methods (or processes)disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of theinvention.

In various example embodiments, the methods (or processes) can beaccomplished on the service provider side or on the mobile device sideor in any shared way between service provider and mobile device withactions being performed on both sides.

For various example embodiments, the following is applicable: Anapparatus comprising means for performing the method of any of themethod claims.

Still other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention arereadily apparent from the following detailed description, simply byillustrating a number of particular embodiments and implementations,including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Theinvention is also capable of other and different embodiments, and itsseveral details can be modified in various obvious respects, all withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, thedrawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature,and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example, andnot by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable of providing mapping informationand route information based on exception information received fromvarious users travelling within a common area, according to oneembodiment;

FIGS. 2A-2F are diagrams of mapping information and route informationpresentable to a user interface of a user device based on exceptioninformation 111 received from various user devices travelling within acommon area, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3 presents an exemplary user interface for facilitating exceptionreporting, according to one embodiment.

FIGS. 4A-4F are flowcharts of a process for providing mappinginformation and route information based on exception informationreceived from various users travelling within a common area, accordingto various embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of hardware that can be used to implement anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a chip set that can be used to implement anembodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a mobile terminal (e.g., handset) that can beused to implement an embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

Examples of a method, apparatus, and computer program for providingnavigation information based on route exception information receivedfrom various users travelling within a common area are disclosed. In thefollowing description, for the purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the embodiments of the invention. It is apparent,however, to one skilled in the art that the embodiments of the inventionmay be practiced without these specific details or with an equivalentarrangement. In other instances, well-known structures and devices areshown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuringthe embodiments of the invention.

Although the various exemplary embodiments are described with respect toapplications and services for supporting user navigation and mapping, itis contemplated that these embodiments have applicability to any dataprotocols, methodologies or systems for supporting global positioningsystem (GPS) technology, internet or network based mapping applications,trip planning applications, route planning services, locationinformation services or the like.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable of providing mapping informationand route information based on exception information received fromvarious users travelling within a common area, according to oneembodiment. By way of example, the system enables route informationand/or mapping information to be updated/modified, then subsequentlypresented to a display of a user device (e.g., UE 101 a-101 n) operatinga navigation/mapping application. The route information and/or mappinginformation are updated responsive to the occurrence of exceptions, ordeviations to predetermined route information, as performed by one ormore other users as they travel to the same destination or a common areaas the user of the user device.

As used herein, a “navigation/mapping application” 107 includes anyexecutable software or service by a user device for supporting usertravel, including navigation services, mapping services, GPS basedservices and applications, railway mapping services, trip planningapplications or the like. By way of example, navigation/mappingapplications are enables for operation by a navigation/mapping service,presented over a communication network 115 by a service provider, whichprovides route information and/or mapping information 113 suitable forprocessing by the navigation/mapping application 107. “Routeinformation” and “mapping information” 113 as used herein, pertains toany data capable of being processed by or presented by thenavigation/mapping application 107 operable at a user device for thepurpose of supporting travel, route planning, sightseeing, locationfinding, etc. By way of example, route information includes instructionsand data for enabling users to arrive at a destination from a givenstarting point, including way points, destination points, traveldetails, directional details, street names, highway names, landmark dataand other data. Route information may be provided to the user intextual, visual and audible form by the navigation/mapping application,and may be used singularly or in combination to enable a user tonavigate from one location to a destination. In certain embodiments, theroute information may be processed to identify one or more roadsegments, one or more path segments, or a combination thereof asrequired for facilitating navigation via a navigation/mappingapplication or service.

Mapping information pertains to data capable of process by anapplication or service for generating or presenting a map of an area(e.g., city, town, street or combination thereof). The mappinginformation may also be used in connection with route information,wherein the route information is visually depicted in association with amap. By way of example, mapping information may include various icons,graphics, indicators and descriptors for representing one or morethroughways, buildings, landmarks, waterways, parks, vehicles, people,etc. In certain embodiments, the mapping information may visually depictone or more road segments, one or more path segments, or a combinationthereof.

Of note, the route information and mapping information 113 may bepresented to a user via a display of a user device running anavigation/mapping application 107 in combination or singularly.Furthermore, the information may be presented to a user by way ofvisual, textual, audible means or a combination thereof. In certainembodiments, the route information and/or mapping information 113 may bepresented with respect to or inclusive of weather data, constructiondata, event data, traffic data (e.g., volume, capacity), speed data,temporal information and other data for supporting navigation.

Today's wireless communication devices, such as cell phones,smartphones, laptops and tablet computers are equipped with variousapplications and features for providing ease and convenience to users.Given the prevalent use of such devices as viable alternatives todesktop computers, which are stationary, they are configured foron-the-go use. Hence, applications and services for supportingnavigation and mapping are commonly featured for use by most mobileready devices, including those that support GPS data tracking andlocation services. By way of the application or service, users can bepresented with maps, travel directions, route details and other forms ofnavigation information for supporting their travel, sightseeing orlocation finding needs. To ensure accuracy, updated mapping and/or routeinformation must be periodically downloaded from a navigation or mappingservice provider (e.g., navigation/mapping service 105) to account forchanges in topography, town or city design, throughway configuration oradditions, landmarks and other details that affect the ability of a userto reach a given destination.

Unfortunately, the mapping and/or route information as downloaded fromthe service is static, and does not account for real-time conditionsthat affect the reliability of maps, directions, routes and otherinformation presented to a user. For example, while the most up-to-datemap reflective of a given area may be downloaded to the user deviceaccordingly, this map does not address traffic jams, construction,inclement weather, etc. Hence, the map generated for display to the userand corresponding travel directions presented are based on best casescenarios—i.e., the fastest route for reaching a destination. Thisapproach, however, assumes there are no impediments to travel. Whilethere are services for providing data related to such occurrences—i.e.,for integration and use with navigation and/or mapping applications—thisdata is still based on general data, automatic traffic recordingdevices, forecast techniques, weigh-in-motion devices, etc. Despite theusefulness of such means of data gathering, there is currently no meansof facilitating the updating and presentment of mapping and/or routeinformation (e.g., route recommendations, travel directions, pathsegments, road segments) based on continuous reporting of the behavioralpatterns of other users as they encounter conditions or obstacles thatimpact travel to a given destination.

To address this problem, a system 100 of FIG. 1 introduces thecapability to adapt mapping information and/or route information basedon the reporting of a predetermined number of exceptions, or deviations,to a preferred route to the destination. The exception as reported bydiffering UE 101 a-101 n is maintained as exception information 111. Inaddition, the system 100 facilitates presentment of updated mappinginformation and/or route information to the display of a user device,e.g., via a navigation/mapping service 105, based on this reporting. Incertain embodiments, these capabilities are performed by a navigationsystem 103, which is configured to operate in connection with thenavigation/mapping service 105 for supporting execution ofnavigation/mapping applications 107 a-107 n of one or more user devices,i.e., user equipment (UE) 101 a-101 n. The navigation system 103 may beconfigured to operate through automated means, administrator directedmeans, or a combination thereof.

“Exceptions” as used herein pertains to any mapping information orrouting information for indicating an alternative to a predeterminedroute, including alternative path or road segments, mode of travel(e.g., speed, means), direction of travel, or the like. Exceptions areprovided to the navigation system 103 by multiple users of devices,i.e., user equipment (UE) 101 a-101 n, that are traveling to the samedestination or in a common area comprising a network of path segments orroad segments (e.g., streets, highways, alleyways, etc., within adefined proximity or radius). By way of example, the navigation/mappingapplications 107 a-107 n of UE 101 a-101 n transmits exceptioninformation 111 to the navigation system 103 over the communicationnetwork 115, such as in the form of type or reason information. By wayof example, reason information may be data indicative of a particularobstacle, hindrance or circumstance that caused one or more user's todeviate from predetermined route information. This may includeaccidents, weather related obstacles, event based obstacles (e.g.,concerts, protests), emergency response activity, construction basedobstacles, etc.

Type information may be exception related data that is indicative of aparticular type of exception or condition thereof. For example, one typeof exception can be temporary while another is permanent. As anotherexample, the type information may indicate the type of transportperformed by a user and/or user device 101 that relayed the exception,such as car, commercial traffic, walking pedestrian, etc. It is furthernoted, that in certain embodiments, exception information 111 may alsoinclude data for suggesting an improvement to the preferred route.

As mentioned, the navigation/mapping service 105 maintains route and/ormapping information 113, which is subsequently processed by respectivenavigation/mapping applications at UE 101. By way of this approach, thenavigation/mapping application may present mapping information and routeinformation accordingly to a user via the display or speaker system ofUE 101. A “route” or “route information,” as presented herein, pertainsto a set of instructions to be performed by a user respective to a giventravel area for reaching a destination. The instruction may includetravel in various directions along one or more streets, highways, etc.,or a combination thereof; the various thoroughfares capable of beingpresented as mapping information in the form or one or more roadsegments, path segments or a combination thereof. By way of example, auser located currently at a location A wishing to travel to adestination E may arrive at the destination by way of routinginformation (routes) B, C or D. The route presented as a primary optionto the user for arriving at the destination, referred to herein as a“predetermined route,” may be based on numerous factors includingcurrent mapping and/or routing information, distance to the destinationfrom location A, temporal data (e.g., shortest time from location A toD), user travel preferences (e.g., street travel preference rather thanhighway).

Typically, the predetermined route is that which requires the shortesttravel distance or amount of time from location A to destination E.However, the navigation system 103 performs a comparison between thepredetermined route as suggested by the navigation/mapping application107 and detected travel information for one or more other UE 101 a-101 ntravelling towards the same destination, along the same path or roadsegments, or in the same area. For example, the navigation system 103may determine that one or more other users of UE 101 that have travelledto destination E by way of route C. As route C comprises one or moreroad segments or path segments, an area weighting value may bedetermined based on a categorization of the one or more segments.

The area weighting value indicates a level of severity, rank orpreference of a given area relative to the predetermined route; the areaconsisting of one or more road segments, path segments or a combinationthereof. Hence, area weighting information is generated by thenavigation system 103 based on a categorization of the one or more roador path segments. It is noted that the categorization may account fortraffic volume, traffic capacity, nearby points of interest, road orpath segment usage type, and other factors. In the example presentedabove, an area weighting value may be higher to represent a thoroughfarethat typically experiences significant traffic volume (e.g., a main orarterial roadway) along a particular route, while a lower value may beassigned to a thoroughfare that typically exhibits lower traffic volumes(e.g., a residential street). It is noted, therefore, that the weightingmay be assigned based on historical characteristics of a given path,road, etc., based on data from observational models, computationalmethods, traffic detection techniques, etc. Also of note, area weightingmay be determined/modified responsive to detection by the navigationsystem 103 of a number of exception occurrences.

In certain embodiments, when a number of exceptions are reported andrecorded by the navigation system 103 up to a predetermined threshold,an update to the predetermined route information is generated. Asmentioned previously, the exception information 111 may include type orreason information, such as data indicative of a particular obstacle ordata for indicating the type of transport performed with respect to auser and/or user device 101 that relayed the exception (e.g., car,commercial traffic, walking pedestrian). By processing type informationand/or reason information as reported, the navigation system 103 furthergenerates exception weighting information. The exception weightinginformation indicates a level of severity, rank or preference of a givenexception relative to the predetermined route. Hence, while varioususers of UE 101 a-101 n may execute differing alternate/deviant routesin lieu of given predetermined route information, the exceptioninformation 111 with a higher weighting is more suitable for affectingupdating of the predetermined route information.

In certain embodiments, the exception weighting information may be basedon the quantity of exceptions of like type and reason, the affinitybetween reason and type information, or a combination thereof. Inaddition, the navigation system 103 may also process user weightinginformation, such as for indicating a level of trust of a user and/or UE101 a-101 n that reports an exception. By way of example, a user of UE101 that is a truck driver or bus driver having high familiarity with agiven roadway or street may garner higher trust, and hence a higher userweighting than a driver of a standard automobile. To facilitatereporting and user exception weighting, the navigation system 103 mayalso be configured to authenticate and/or identify users of UE 101 a-101n that interact with the navigation/mapping service 105.

Updating of the predetermined route information can be facilitated bythe navigation system 103 by submitting a notification signal to thenavigation/mapping service 105. The signal may prompt generation andsubsequent transmission of updated predetermined route information tothe one or more navigation/mapping applications 107 a-107 n of UE 101a-101 n. In other embodiments, the navigation system 103 may beconfigured to cause the update directly, such as by overriding thepredetermined route information pursuant to the update, restrictingpresentment of the predetermine route, etc. Per this execution,alternative routing and/or mapping information (updated predeterminedroute information) is presented to a display of a user device. By way ofexample, when travel information for user devices 101 b-101 n indicatesa sufficient number of exceptions to the predetermined route A (e.g.,many users are taking route C); mapping and/or routing information forroute C is presented accordingly. As such, path segments and roadsegments for execution of route C is displayed to reflect a deviation,and suitable alternative, to predetermined route A.

As described above, the navigation system 103 processes various data forgenerating and/or facilitating an update to the predetermined route,including: exception weighting information based in part on type andreason information, user weighting information based in part on trustinformation for a user, area weighting information based in part on acharacterization/categorization (e.g., traffic intensity, points ofinterest) of one or more road or path segments, area weightinginformation. Consequently, the navigation system 103 enables real-timeroad and travel conditions, behavioural pattern data of multiple users(drivers), i.e., in the form of exceptions and historical informationregarding various throughways to be factored into the mapping and routeinformation generation process.

While shown as a separate entity, it is contemplated in certainembodiments that the navigation system 103 may be integrated with thenavigation/mapping service 105; the operation of which is suitable forsupporting execution of navigation/mapping applications 107 at one ormore user devices. It is noted that integration and/or communicationbetween the navigation/mapping service 105, navigation system 103 andone or more navigation/mapping applications 107 a-107 n of respective UE101 a-101 n is facilitated by way of a communication network 115. Thecommunication network 115 of system 100 includes one or more networkssuch as a data network (not shown), a wireless network (not shown), atelephony network (not shown), or any combination thereof. It iscontemplated that the data network may be any local area network (LAN),metropolitan area network (MAN), wide area network (WAN), a public datanetwork (e.g., the Internet), short range wireless network, or any othersuitable packet-switched network, such as a commercially owned,proprietary packet-switched network, e.g., a proprietary cable orfiber-optic network, and the like, or any combination thereof.

In addition, the wireless network may be, for example, a cellularnetwork and may employ various technologies including enhanced datarates for global evolution (EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS),global system for mobile communications (GSM), Internet protocolmultimedia subsystem (IMS), universal mobile telecommunications system(UMTS), etc., as well as any other suitable wireless medium, e.g.,worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), Long TermEvolution (LTE) networks, code division multiple access (CDMA), widebandcode division multiple access (WCDMA), wireless fidelity (WiFi),wireless LAN (WLAN), Bluetooth®, Internet Protocol (IP) data casting,satellite, mobile ad-hoc network (MANET), and the like, or anycombination thereof.

The UE 101 is any type of mobile terminal, fixed terminal, or portableterminal including a mobile handset, station, unit, device, multimediacomputer, multimedia tablet, Internet node, communicator, desktopcomputer, laptop computer, notebook computer, netbook computer, tabletcomputer, personal communication system (PCS) device, personalnavigation device, personal digital assistants (PDAs), audio/videoplayer, digital camera/camcorder, positioning device, televisionreceiver, radio broadcast receiver, electronic book device, game device,or any combination thereof, including the accessories and peripherals ofthese devices, or any combination thereof. It is also contemplated thatthe UE 101 can support any type of interface to the user (such as“wearable” circuitry, etc.).

By way of example, the UE 101, navigation/mapping service 105 andnavigation system 103 communicate with each other and other componentsof the communication network 115 using well known, new or stilldeveloping protocols. In this context, a protocol includes a set ofrules defining how the network nodes within the communication network115 interact with each other based on information sent over thecommunication links. The protocols are effective at different layers ofoperation within each node, from generating and receiving physicalsignals of various types, to selecting a link for transferring thosesignals, to the format of information indicated by those signals, toidentifying which software application executing on a computer systemsends or receives the information. The conceptually different layers ofprotocols for exchanging information over a network are described in theOpen Systems Interconnection (OSI) Reference Model.

Communications between the network nodes are typically effected byexchanging discrete packets of data. Each packet typically comprises (1)header information associated with a particular protocol, and (2)payload information that follows the header information and containsinformation that may be processed independently of that particularprotocol. In some protocols, the packet includes (3) trailer informationfollowing the payload and indicating the end of the payload information.The header includes information such as the source of the packet, itsdestination, the length of the payload, and other properties used by theprotocol. Often, the data in the payload for the particular protocolincludes a header and payload for a different protocol associated with adifferent, higher layer of the OSI Reference Model. The header for aparticular protocol typically indicates a type for the next protocolcontained in its payload. The higher layer protocol is said to beencapsulated in the lower layer protocol. The headers included in apacket traversing multiple heterogeneous networks, such as the Internet,typically include a physical (layer 1) header, a data-link (layer 2)header, an internetwork (layer 3) header and a transport (layer 4)header, and various application (layer 5, layer 6 and layer 7) headersas defined by the OSI Reference Model.

FIGS. 2A-2F are diagrams of mapping information and route informationpresentable to a user interface of a user device based on exceptioninformation 111 received from various user devices travelling within acommon area, according to various embodiments. For the purpose ofillustration, the diagrams are described with respect to an exemplaryuse case of one or more users (e.g., travelers) configured to thenavigation system 103 as they encounter various circumstances orconditions that affect their ability to reach a set destination. Theusers control UE 101 a-101 n, each of which operates respectivenavigation/mapping applications 107 a-107 n. It is noted that while theuser interface depictions correspond to the process of updatingpredetermined route information, the devices may be configured to causepresentment of various additional screens based on exception reportingby UE 101 a-101 n to the navigation system 103.

FIG. 2A is a display 200 for presenting mapping information for a givengeographic area. The level of detail of the mapping information (map) iscontrolled by a zoom action button 203. In certain embodiments, the usermay user may select the “−” feature of the zoom action button 203 fordecreasing the amount of zoom, and hence reducing the level ofmagnification. By way of this approach, the scope of the mappinginformation is increased to a level of perspective ranging from streetlevel to a state level view. Alternatively, the user may select the “+”feature of the zoom action button 203 for increasing the amount of zoomand hence, increasing the amount of perspective and magnification ofdetail of the mapping information. By way of this approach, the user maynarrow the level of perspective from a state level view to a streetlevel view. A pan action button 201 may also be featured for enablingthe user to modify the location of a center point 204 of the map andtherefore provide a directional perspective shift (e.g., “up” feature ofthe pan action button moves the center point 204 northward). While UE101 a-101 n operating system requirements and display configuration mayvary, execution of a particular action button may result in a continuousdisplay refresh action.

The mapping information may include various descriptors, graphicelements, textual elements, indicators and other data for representing amap. Details may include and names of and graphics representative ofthroughways such as streets 205, 211 and 213 and roadways and highways207. In addition, topological features such as a water source 209 andparks 210 may also be featured. The mapping information may also includevarious icons for representing one or more railways, buildings,landmarks and other details for increasing the usefulness of the map.

FIG. 2B is a display 215 for presenting mapping information along with aspecific categorization of route information, labelled in this exampleas Area Category A. By way of example, this categorization of routeinformation represents the most important road and/or path segments 217for the geographic area depicted with respect to FIG. 2A. Under thisscenario, the area weighting is based on traffic volume, wherein roadand/or path segments 217 represent those with the most traffic.Consequently, road and/or path segments 217 have the highest areaweighting. It is noted therefore that the navigation system 103 accountsfor this area weighting and categorization whenever a user of a UE 101a-101 n attempts to navigate to a destination within the geographic areaas shown. Also of note, the road and/or path segments are presented asan overlay atop the mapping information for enabling the user tovisualize specific route information more clearly.

In FIGS. 2C and 2D, additional categories of route information, labeledin this example as Area Category B and C respectively are shown. By wayof example, these categorizations represent a descending order ofpriority of predetermined route information category. Area Category Brepresents the next most important roads after those with respect toArea Category A of FIG. 2B. The route information is presented todisplay 219 as specific road and/or path segments 221 along with themapping information. Under this scenario, the roadways and or pathwaysrepresented by segments 217 indicate routes that are normally used toaccess Area Category A roads—i.e., as presented by segments 217. Routeinformation corresponding to Area Category C, as shown in FIG. 2D,represents a category of roads that are important passage ways fortrucks and that have roadways along which several factories andindustrial sites are located. The route information is presented todisplay 223 as one or more road and/or pathway segments 225. Under thisscenario, a lower area weighting is assigned to the route information ofArea Category B and C.

FIG. 2E is a display 227 for presenting mapping information and routinginformation corresponding to an Area Category D. By way of example, thiscategorization of route information represents mainly small and narrowroads and pathways having apartments and houses on both sides of theroad. These residential roads are used to access higher priority roads,such as those of Area Category A. Under this scenario, the mappinginformation includes path and/or roadway segments 229.

FIG. 2F is a display 230 for presenting all road segments 217, 221, 229as route information along with the same mapping information (map).

As noted before, the differing Area Categories are used to define theimportance of changes in predefined navigation routes by users. By wayof example, a user traveling along a segment 229 corresponding to aroute on Area category D could make several exceptions in a short timegiven the numerous alternative routes available. It is less probable,therefore, that a user exits a predetermined navigation routecorresponding to segment 217 of Area Category A. Also, by way ofexample, due to high traffic volume and capacity for segments 217corresponding to Area Category A, the area weighting is set to 100.Under this scenario, if 100 users of UE 101 a-101 n navigating throughthe same geographic area make the same exception—i.e., pursue adifferent route category—their mapping information and routinginformation is updated and presented to the display accordingly.

In another exemplary use case, a user of a passenger vehicle operatingwithin the geographic area represented in FIGS. 2A-2F is assigned a userweighting of 10, while another user is identified as by the navigationsystem 103 as a bus driver having user weighting information set to 20.Under this scenario, the reliability and/or level of trust of the busdriver is higher as this particular user is expected to follow apredefined bus route. As such, any deviation from the predefined routemay indicate to a high level of reliability the presence of an obstacle,hindrance or other circumstance representing an exception. The followingscenario presents a sequence of executions performed by the system 103,the navigation/mapping service 105, the navigation/mapping applications107 a-107 n of respective UE 101 a-101 n, or combinations thereof inresponse to various exception conditions:

-   -   1. A portion of road comprising segment 217, as categorized to        Area A, is blocked due to an accident.    -   2. The bus driver, having the higher user weighting, shift        arrives at the road or approaches it as they engage their normal        bus route. Pursuant to the accident, the bus driver makes an        exception from the route. This deviation is reported by the        identifier user, such as by way of the user's UE 101 via        communication network 115.    -   3. Upon detecting the deviation and given the user weighting        value, an area weighting for this particular area (e.g.,        position and close proximity) is set to a value of 80.    -   4. Subsequently, the user of the passenger vehicle, having the        lower user weighting, arrives at the same road and makes the        same exception as the bus driver. The area weighting value        (e.g., for this position and close proximity) is set to 70 given        the lower trust information associated with this user.    -   5. As time elapses, the navigation system 103 receives exception        information 111 from more than 70 other users, all of which        provide travel information for indicating they have deviated        from predetermined route information to avoid the scene of        accident. Based on reason information, type information and a        combination thereof, the exception weighting of 70 is        established by the system 103.    -   6. Once the threshold of exceptions is exceeded, the navigation        system 103 prompts the navigation/mapping service 105 to update        subsequent users of navigation/mapping applications 107 a-107 n        of UE 101 a-101 n with the new route information. As a result,        these users are directed along a path and/or road segment that        takes them past the accident by way of an exceptional route        (e.g., a route via Category B versus predetermined or preferred        category A). It is noted that a map server administrator,        capable of operating the navigation system 103, may be notified        of the change.    -   7. After the scene of the accident is cleared over a period of        time, where temporal information is recorded by the navigation        system 103, mapping and/or route information can be reset to the        predetermined route information. Alternatively, the mapping        and/or route information can be updated after a number        determined number of users follow the original route (e.g., Area        Category A), thus representing once again exceptions to the        current predetermined route (e.g., Area Category B).    -   8. The navigation system 103 assigns a lower area weighting of        50 to the original route. Thus after 50 users or a less number        of identified users travel by way of the original route, i.e., a        route corresponding to Area Category A, the map is returned to        its original status.

It is noted in the above example that in addition to area and userweighting information, type and reason information is determined forenabling exception weighting. For instance, in the scenario above wherean accident is the cause of deviation, such an occurrence can hinder ordistract the traffic for a brief period time up until trafficenforcement clears the roadways. However, an exception causes by roadconstruction along one or more road and/or path segments can last forseveral weeks or months, representing a more permanent exception typerather than temporary.

Consequently, reason information and type information as used forperforming exception weighting can only be provided after the reason isknown. The reporting process may be facilitated by way of thenavigation/mapping application 107 a-107 n of respective UE 101 a-101 n.FIG. 3 presents an exemplary user interface for facilitating exceptionreporting, according to one embodiment. By way of example, a user maydeviate from predetermined route information corresponding to a segmentof road 217 categorized as Area Category A for predetermined routeinformation corresponding to a segment or road 225 for Area Category Cdue to an accident scene at point 311. In response to the deviation, aprompt 301 is presented to the user interface 300 for presenting amessage 303 that the deviation was detected. In addition, the prompt 301may also feature one or more exception conditions 303 for enabling auser to report exception information 111 (the cause of deviation). Theuser may select one or more conditions, i.e., via one or more radiobuttons 309 or through voice activation (during driving). A “Send”action button 305 or “Cancel” action button 307 may then be selected forsending the exception information 111 or canceling submission of theexception information. In certain embodiments, the exception conditions303 may be preselected by the navigation system for validation by theuser. In other embodiments, it is also contemplated that the reportingprocess by respective users and/or UE 101 a-101 n is carried out viathird party information, i.e., weather reports, traffic reports, GPStracking, etc., without user prompting.

As noted earlier, the reason information and type information affectexception weighting. Resultantly, when a predetermined route is updatedto a secondary route due to a traffic accident at a point 311 along themap, the secondary route can have significantly lower weighting than theoriginal route. By way of example, consider a segment of road and/orpathway 217 corresponding to an area that is weighted as 100 (e.g., AreaCategory A=100). Due to accident at point 311 that is located alongsegment 217, multiple users of UE 101 a-101 n are determined to travelalong a segment of road and/or pathway 225. This traffic patterncorresponds to a deviation by the navigation system 103. Under thisscenario, the area weighting associated with the alternate road is setto 50 as it is may be a longer or slower road than the original route(based on normal navigation route calculation). Once reason informationis reported as an accident, the exception weighting is set to be lowerthan a normal exception, i.e., 25. Thus after 25 users make an exceptionand use the original route, the navigation route for all users is setback to original and the value of 100 is restored. In the case where thereason for exception is not recognized or reported, 50 users would needto perform an exception (deviation) to the predetermined route.

FIGS. 4A-4C are flowcharts of a process for providing mappinginformation and route information based on exception informationreceived from various users travelling within a common area, accordingto various embodiments. In one embodiment, the navigation system 103performs processes 400, 408, 414, 420, 426 and 434 and is implementedin, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shownin FIG. 6. For the purpose of illustration, the processes are describedwith respect to FIG. 1. It is noted that the steps of the process may beperformed in any suitable order, as well as combined or separated in anysuitable manner.

In step 401 of process 400, the navigation system 103 processes travelinformation associated with one or more devices (e.g., UE 101 a-101 n)for comparison against predetermined route information. As mentionedpreviously, the predetermined route information may include data basedon a best case scenario basis, i.e., devoid of factors such as trafficvolume, real-time travel information, exceptions as performed by variousdrivers, etc. In another step 403, the system 103 determines one or moreexceptions to the predetermined route information based on thecomparison. The one or more exceptions, received from various userdevices, represent one or more deviations by one or more devices from atleast one route indicated in the predetermined route information. Perstep 405, the navigation system 103 processes the one or more exceptions(e.g., as exception information 111) to cause updating of thepredetermined route information and/or mapping information. Asmentioned, this includes updating the presentment of mapping informationand/or route information to a display of UE 101 a-101 n by way ofnavigation/mapping applications 107 a-107 n.

In step 409 or process 408 of FIG. 4B, the navigation system processesthe predetermined route information to identify one or more road and/orpath segments. In another step 411, the system 103 determines areaweighting information based on a categorization of the one or more roadand/or path segments. As noted previously, the categorization of the oneor more road segments and/or path segments is based on traffic volume,traffic capacity, types of nearby points of interest, types of uses,etc. The categorization enables the navigation system 103 to account forvarious conditions, factors or circumstances that impact a user'sability or inclination to reach a destination by way of a predeterminedroute. In another step 411, the system 103 determines area weightinginformation based on a categorization of the one or more road and/orpath segments. By way of this approach, the navigation system 103 mayupdate of the predetermined route information and mappinginformation—i.e., the presentment of road and/or path segments to thedisplay—based on the area weighting information.

In step 415 of process 414 of FIG. 4C, the navigation system 103categorizes the one or more devices based on one or more characteristicsof the one or more devices and/or one or more characteristics of one ormore users of the one or more devices. In another step 417, userweighting information, for indicating a level of trust or reliability ofexception information 111 provided by a given user, is based on thecategorization of the one or more devices. It is noted that the updatingof the predetermined route information, mapping information, or acombination thereof is based on user weighting information. Per step419, user weighting information is determined based on the determiningof trust information associated with the respective one or more devices.Hence, the navigation system 103 also accounts for characteristics ofthe participating reporting users providing exception information 111for facilitating the updating or route and mapping information.

In step 421 of process 420 of FIG. 4D, the navigation system 103determines type information of the respective one or more exceptions. Asnoted previously, the reason information and type information mayprovide details regarding the reason for an exception/deviation beingexecuted or a type of user transport (e.g., vehicle type) associatedwith the exception. The navigation system 103 maintains this data inaddition to or as part of the exception information. In particular, perstep 423, the navigation system 103 processes the type informationand/or reason information to determine exception weightinginformation—i.e., a level or rank of validity or usefulness of a givenexception with respect to a predetermined route. Updating of thepredetermined route information, the mapping information, or acombination thereof is based on the exception weighting information.Moreover, the updating is based on area weighting information.

Per step 427 of process 426 of FIG. 4E, the navigation system 103categorizes the one or more reporting UEs based on characteristics ofthe device and/or users of said devices. In step 428, the system furtherdetermines user weighting information based on the categorization of theone or more devices. In another step 432, trust information isdetermined in association with the one or more devices. Of note, theuser weighting information is based on the trust information.

In steps 435 and 437 of process 434 of FIG. 4F, type and/or reasoninformation is determined for one or more exceptions as reported andsubsequently processes to determine exception weighting information. Perstep 439, the navigation system 103 determines whether a number of theone or more exceptions exceed at least one threshold value. As such,updating of the predetermined route information and/or mappinginformation is based on the determination with respect to the at leastone threshold value. By way of this approach, the navigation system 103may adapt to deviations for a period of time and necessity by accountingfor temporal information. In addition, the system 103 may enable mappingand/or route information to be based again on original predeterminedroute information in response to the absence of the conditions that ledto a deviation.

The processes described herein for providing mapping information androute information based on exception information received from varioususers travelling within a common area may be advantageously implementedvia software, hardware, firmware or a combination of software and/orfirmware and/or hardware. For example, the processes described herein,may be advantageously implemented via processor(s), Digital SignalProcessing (DSP) chip, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit(ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), etc. Such exemplaryhardware for performing the described functions is detailed below.

FIG. 5 illustrates a computer system 500 upon which an embodiment of theinvention may be implemented. Although computer system 500 is depictedwith respect to a particular device or equipment, it is contemplatedthat other devices or equipment (e.g., network elements, servers, etc.)within FIG. 5 can deploy the illustrated hardware and components ofsystem 500. Computer system 500 is programmed (e.g., via computerprogram code or instructions) to provide mapping information and routeinformation based on exception information received from various userstravelling within a common area as described herein and includes acommunication mechanism such as a bus 510 for passing informationbetween other internal and external components of the computer system500. Information (also called data) is represented as a physicalexpression of a measurable phenomenon, typically electric voltages, butincluding, in other embodiments, such phenomena as magnetic,electromagnetic, pressure, chemical, biological, molecular, atomic,sub-atomic and quantum interactions. For example, north and southmagnetic fields, or a zero and non-zero electric voltage, represent twostates (0, 1) of a binary digit (bit). Other phenomena can representdigits of a higher base. A superposition of multiple simultaneousquantum states before measurement represents a quantum bit (qubit). Asequence of one or more digits constitutes digital data that is used torepresent a number or code for a character. In some embodiments,information called analog data is represented by a near continuum ofmeasurable values within a particular range. Computer system 500, or aportion thereof, constitutes a means for performing one or more steps ofto providing mapping information and route information based onexception information received from various users travelling within acommon area.

A bus 510 includes one or more parallel conductors of information sothat information is transferred quickly among devices coupled to the bus510. One or more processors 502 for processing information are coupledwith the bus 510.

A processor (or multiple processors) 502 performs a set of operations oninformation as specified by computer program code related to providemapping information and route information based on exception informationreceived from various users travelling within a common area. Thecomputer program code is a set of instructions or statements providinginstructions for the operation of the processor and/or the computersystem to perform specified functions. The code, for example, may bewritten in a computer programming language that is compiled into anative instruction set of the processor. The code may also be writtendirectly using the native instruction set (e.g., machine language). Theset of operations include bringing information in from the bus 510 andplacing information on the bus 510. The set of operations also typicallyinclude comparing two or more units of information, shifting positionsof units of information, and combining two or more units of information,such as by addition or multiplication or logical operations like OR,exclusive OR (XOR), and AND. Each operation of the set of operationsthat can be performed by the processor is represented to the processorby information called instructions, such as an operation code of one ormore digits. A sequence of operations to be executed by the processor502, such as a sequence of operation codes, constitute processorinstructions, also called computer system instructions or, simply,computer instructions. Processors may be implemented as mechanical,electrical, magnetic, optical, chemical or quantum components, amongothers, alone or in combination.

Computer system 500 also includes a memory 504 coupled to bus 510. Thememory 504, such as a random access memory (RAM) or any other dynamicstorage device, stores information including processor instructions forproviding mapping information and route information based on exceptioninformation received from various users travelling within a common area.Dynamic memory allows information stored therein to be changed by thecomputer system 500. RAM allows a unit of information stored at alocation called a memory address to be stored and retrievedindependently of information at neighboring addresses. The memory 504 isalso used by the processor 502 to store temporary values duringexecution of processor instructions. The computer system 500 alsoincludes a read only memory (ROM) 506 or any other static storage devicecoupled to the bus 510 for storing static information, includinginstructions, that is not changed by the computer system 500. Somememory is composed of volatile storage that loses the information storedthereon when power is lost. Also coupled to bus 510 is a non-volatile(persistent) storage device 508, such as a magnetic disk, optical diskor flash card, for storing information, including instructions, thatpersists even when the computer system 500 is turned off or otherwiseloses power.

Information, including instructions for providing mapping informationand route information based on exception information received fromvarious users travelling within a common area, is provided to the bus510 for use by the processor from an external input device 512, such asa keyboard containing alphanumeric keys operated by a human user, or asensor. A sensor detects conditions in its vicinity and transforms thosedetections into physical expression compatible with the measurablephenomenon used to represent information in computer system 500. Otherexternal devices coupled to bus 510, used primarily for interacting withhumans, include a display device 514, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT),a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, anorganic LED (OLED) display, a plasma screen, or a printer for presentingtext or images, and a pointing device 516, such as a mouse, a trackball,cursor direction keys, or a motion sensor, for controlling a position ofa small cursor image presented on the display 514 and issuing commandsassociated with graphical elements presented on the display 514. In someembodiments, for example, in embodiments in which the computer system500 performs all functions automatically without human input, one ormore of external input device 512, display device 514 and pointingdevice 516 is omitted.

In the illustrated embodiment, special purpose hardware, such as anapplication specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 520, is coupled to bus510. The special purpose hardware is configured to perform operationsnot performed by processor 502 quickly enough for special purposes.Examples of ASICs include graphics accelerator cards for generatingimages for display 514, cryptographic boards for encrypting anddecrypting messages sent over a network, speech recognition, andinterfaces to special external devices, such as robotic arms and medicalscanning equipment that repeatedly perform some complex sequence ofoperations that are more efficiently implemented in hardware.

Computer system 500 also includes one or more instances of acommunications interface 570 coupled to bus 510. Communication interface570 provides a one-way or two-way communication coupling to a variety ofexternal devices that operate with their own processors, such asprinters, scanners and external disks. In general the coupling is with anetwork link 578 that is connected to a local network 580 to which avariety of external devices with their own processors are connected. Forexample, communication interface 570 may be a parallel port or a serialport or a universal serial bus (USB) port on a personal computer. Insome embodiments, communications interface 570 is an integrated servicesdigital network (ISDN) card or a digital subscriber line (DSL) card or atelephone modem that provides an information communication connection toa corresponding type of telephone line. In some embodiments, acommunication interface 570 is a cable modem that converts signals onbus 510 into signals for a communication connection over a coaxial cableor into optical signals for a communication connection over a fiberoptic cable. As another example, communications interface 570 may be alocal area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connectionto a compatible LAN, such as Ethernet. Wireless links may also beimplemented. For wireless links, the communications interface 570 sendsor receives or both sends and receives electrical, acoustic orelectromagnetic signals, including infrared and optical signals thatcarry information streams, such as digital data. For example, inwireless handheld devices, such as mobile telephones like cell phones,the communications interface 570 includes a radio band electromagnetictransmitter and receiver called a radio transceiver. In certainembodiments, the communications interface 570 enables connection to thecommunication network 115 for providing mapping information and routeinformation based on exception information received from various userstravelling within a common area to the UE 101.

The term “computer-readable medium” as used herein refers to any mediumthat participates in providing information to processor 502, includinginstructions for execution. Such a medium may take many forms,including, but not limited to computer-readable storage medium (e.g.,non-volatile media, volatile media), and transmission media.Non-transitory media, such as non-volatile media, include, for example,optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 508. Volatile mediainclude, for example, dynamic memory 504. Transmission media include,for example, twisted pair cables, coaxial cables, copper wire, fiberoptic cables, and carrier waves that travel through space without wiresor cables, such as acoustic waves and electromagnetic waves, includingradio, optical and infrared waves. Signals include man-made transientvariations in amplitude, frequency, phase, polarization or otherphysical properties transmitted through the transmission media. Commonforms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, aflexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, aCD-ROM, CDRW, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape,optical mark sheets, any other physical medium with patterns of holes orother optically recognizable indicia, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, aFLASH-EPROM, an EEPROM, a flash memory, any other memory chip orcartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer canread. The term computer-readable storage medium is used herein to referto any computer-readable medium except transmission media.

Logic encoded in one or more tangible media includes one or both ofprocessor instructions on a computer-readable storage media and specialpurpose hardware, such as ASIC 520.

Network link 578 typically provides information communication usingtransmission media through one or more networks to other devices thatuse or process the information. For example, network link 578 mayprovide a connection through local network 580 to a host computer 582 orto equipment 584 operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISPequipment 584 in turn provides data communication services through thepublic, world-wide packet-switching communication network of networksnow commonly referred to as the Internet 590.

A computer called a server host 592 connected to the Internet hosts aprocess that provides a service in response to information received overthe Internet. For example, server host 592 hosts a process that providesinformation representing video data for presentation at display 514. Itis contemplated that the components of system 500 can be deployed invarious configurations within other computer systems, e.g., host 582 andserver 592.

At least some embodiments of the invention are related to the use ofcomputer system 500 for implementing some or all of the techniquesdescribed herein. According to one embodiment of the invention, thosetechniques are performed by computer system 500 in response to processor502 executing one or more sequences of one or more processorinstructions contained in memory 504. Such instructions, also calledcomputer instructions, software and program code, may be read intomemory 504 from another computer-readable medium such as storage device508 or network link 578. Execution of the sequences of instructionscontained in memory 504 causes processor 502 to perform one or more ofthe method steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hardware,such as ASIC 520, may be used in place of or in combination withsoftware to implement the invention. Thus, embodiments of the inventionare not limited to any specific combination of hardware and software,unless otherwise explicitly stated herein.

The signals transmitted over network link 578 and other networks throughcommunications interface 570, carry information to and from computersystem 500. Computer system 500 can send and receive information,including program code, through the networks 580, 590 among others,through network link 578 and communications interface 570. In an exampleusing the Internet 590, a server host 592 transmits program code for aparticular application, requested by a message sent from computer 500,through Internet 590, ISP equipment 584, local network 580 andcommunications interface 570. The received code may be executed byprocessor 502 as it is received, or may be stored in memory 504 or instorage device 508 or any other non-volatile storage for laterexecution, or both. In this manner, computer system 500 may obtainapplication program code in the form of signals on a carrier wave.

Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying oneor more sequence of instructions or data or both to processor 502 forexecution. For example, instructions and data may initially be carriedon a magnetic disk of a remote computer such as host 582. The remotecomputer loads the instructions and data into its dynamic memory andsends the instructions and data over a telephone line using a modem. Amodem local to the computer system 500 receives the instructions anddata on a telephone line and uses an infra-red transmitter to convertthe instructions and data to a signal on an infra-red carrier waveserving as the network link 578. An infrared detector serving ascommunications interface 570 receives the instructions and data carriedin the infrared signal and places information representing theinstructions and data onto bus 510. Bus 510 carries the information tomemory 504 from which processor 502 retrieves and executes theinstructions using some of the data sent with the instructions. Theinstructions and data received in memory 504 may optionally be stored onstorage device 508, either before or after execution by the processor502.

FIG. 6 illustrates a chip set or chip 600 upon which an embodiment ofthe invention may be implemented. Chip set 600 is programmed to providemapping information and route information based on exception informationreceived from various users travelling within a common area as describedherein and includes, for instance, the processor and memory componentsdescribed with respect to FIG. 5 incorporated in one or more physicalpackages (e.g., chips). By way of example, a physical package includesan arrangement of one or more materials, components, and/or wires on astructural assembly (e.g., a baseboard) to provide one or morecharacteristics such as physical strength, conservation of size, and/orlimitation of electrical interaction. It is contemplated that in certainembodiments the chip set 600 can be implemented in a single chip. It isfurther contemplated that in certain embodiments the chip set or chip600 can be implemented as a single “system on a chip.” It is furthercontemplated that in certain embodiments a separate ASIC would not beused, for example, and that all relevant functions as disclosed hereinwould be performed by a processor or processors. Chip set or chip 600,or a portion thereof, constitutes a means for performing one or moresteps of providing user interface navigation information associated withthe availability of functions. Chip set or chip 600, or a portionthereof, constitutes a means for performing one or more steps ofproviding mapping information and route information based on exceptioninformation received from various users travelling within a common area.

In one embodiment, the chip set or chip 600 includes a communicationmechanism such as a bus 601 for passing information among the componentsof the chip set 600. A processor 603 has connectivity to the bus 601 toexecute instructions and process information stored in, for example, amemory 605. The processor 603 may include one or more processing coreswith each core configured to perform independently. A multi-coreprocessor enables multiprocessing within a single physical package.Examples of a multi-core processor include two, four, eight, or greaternumbers of processing cores. Alternatively or in addition, the processor603 may include one or more microprocessors configured in tandem via thebus 601 to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining, andmultithreading. The processor 603 may also be accompanied with one ormore specialized components to perform certain processing functions andtasks such as one or more digital signal processors (DSP) 607, or one ormore application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) 609. A DSP 607typically is configured to process real-world signals (e.g., sound) inreal time independently of the processor 603. Similarly, an ASIC 609 canbe configured to performed specialized functions not easily performed bya more general purpose processor. Other specialized components to aid inperforming the inventive functions described herein may include one ormore field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) (not shown), one or morecontrollers (not shown), or one or more other special-purpose computerchips.

In one embodiment, the chip set or chip 600 includes merely one or moreprocessors and some software and/or firmware supporting and/or relatingto and/or for the one or more processors.

The processor 603 and accompanying components have connectivity to thememory 605 via the bus 601. The memory 605 includes both dynamic memory(e.g., RAM, magnetic disk, writable optical disk, etc.) and staticmemory (e.g., ROM, CD-ROM, etc.) for storing executable instructionsthat when executed perform the inventive steps described herein toprovide mapping information and route information based on exceptioninformation received from various users travelling within a common area.The memory 605 also stores the data associated with or generated by theexecution of the inventive steps.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of exemplary components of a mobile terminal (e.g.,handset) for communications, which is capable of operating in the systemof FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, mobileterminal 701, or a portion thereof, constitutes a means for performingone or more steps of providing mapping information and route informationbased on exception information received from various users travellingwithin a common area. Generally, a radio receiver is often defined interms of front-end and back-end characteristics. The front-end of thereceiver encompasses all of the Radio Frequency (RF) circuitry whereasthe back-end encompasses all of the base-band processing circuitry. Asused in this application, the term “circuitry” refers to both: (1)hardware-only implementations (such as implementations in only analogand/or digital circuitry), and (2) to combinations of circuitry andsoftware (and/or firmware) (such as, if applicable to the particularcontext, to a combination of processor(s), including digital signalprocessor(s), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause anapparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform variousfunctions). This definition of “circuitry” applies to all uses of thisterm in this application, including in any claims. As a further example,as used in this application and if applicable to the particular context,the term “circuitry” would also cover an implementation of merely aprocessor (or multiple processors) and its (or their) accompanyingsoftware/or firmware. The term “circuitry” would also cover ifapplicable to the particular context, for example, a baseband integratedcircuit or applications processor integrated circuit in a mobile phoneor a similar integrated circuit in a cellular network device or othernetwork devices.

Pertinent internal components of the telephone include a Main ControlUnit (MCU) 703, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) 705, and areceiver/transmitter unit including a microphone gain control unit and aspeaker gain control unit. A main display unit 707 provides a display tothe user in support of various applications and mobile terminalfunctions that perform or support the steps of providing mappinginformation and route information based on exception informationreceived from various users travelling within a common area. The display707 includes display circuitry configured to display at least a portionof a user interface of the mobile terminal (e.g., mobile telephone).Additionally, the display 707 and display circuitry are configured tofacilitate user control of at least some functions of the mobileterminal. An audio function circuitry 709 includes a microphone 711 andmicrophone amplifier that amplifies the speech signal output from themicrophone 711. The amplified speech signal output from the microphone711 is fed to a coder/decoder (CODEC) 713.

A radio section 715 amplifies power and converts frequency in order tocommunicate with a base station, which is included in a mobilecommunication system, via antenna 717. The power amplifier (PA) 719 andthe transmitter/modulation circuitry are operationally responsive to theMCU 703, with an output from the PA 719 coupled to the duplexer 721 orcirculator or antenna switch, as known in the art. The PA 719 alsocouples to a battery interface and power control unit 720.

In use, a user of mobile terminal 701 speaks into the microphone 711 andhis or her voice along with any detected background noise is convertedinto an analog voltage. The analog voltage is then converted into adigital signal through the Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) 723. Thecontrol unit 703 routes the digital signal into the DSP 705 forprocessing therein, such as speech encoding, channel encoding,encrypting, and interleaving. In one embodiment, the processed voicesignals are encoded, by units not separately shown, using a cellulartransmission protocol such as enhanced data rates for global evolution(EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), global system for mobilecommunications (GSM), Internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS),universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), etc., as well as anyother suitable wireless medium, e.g., microwave access (WiMAX), LongTerm Evolution (LTE) networks, code division multiple access (CDMA),wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), wireless fidelity(WiFi), satellite, and the like, or any combination thereof.

The encoded signals are then routed to an equalizer 725 for compensationof any frequency-dependent impairments that occur during transmissionthough the air such as phase and amplitude distortion. After equalizingthe bit stream, the modulator 727 combines the signal with a RF signalgenerated in the RF interface 729. The modulator 727 generates a sinewave by way of frequency or phase modulation. In order to prepare thesignal for transmission, an up-converter 731 combines the sine waveoutput from the modulator 727 with another sine wave generated by asynthesizer 733 to achieve the desired frequency of transmission. Thesignal is then sent through a PA 719 to increase the signal to anappropriate power level. In practical systems, the PA 719 acts as avariable gain amplifier whose gain is controlled by the DSP 705 frominformation received from a network base station. The signal is thenfiltered within the duplexer 721 and optionally sent to an antennacoupler 735 to match impedances to provide maximum power transfer.Finally, the signal is transmitted via antenna 717 to a local basestation. An automatic gain control (AGC) can be supplied to control thegain of the final stages of the receiver. The signals may be forwardedfrom there to a remote telephone which may be another cellulartelephone, any other mobile phone or a land-line connected to a PublicSwitched Telephone Network (PSTN), or other telephony networks.

Voice signals transmitted to the mobile terminal 701 are received viaantenna 717 and immediately amplified by a low noise amplifier (LNA)737. A down-converter 739 lowers the carrier frequency while thedemodulator 741 strips away the RF leaving only a digital bit stream.The signal then goes through the equalizer 725 and is processed by theDSP 705. A Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) 743 converts the signal andthe resulting output is transmitted to the user through the speaker 745,all under control of a Main Control Unit (MCU) 703 which can beimplemented as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) (not shown).

The MCU 703 receives various signals including input signals from thekeyboard 747. The keyboard 747 and/or the MCU 703 in combination withother user input components (e.g., the microphone 711) comprise a userinterface circuitry for managing user input. The MCU 703 runs a userinterface software to facilitate user control of at least some functionsof the mobile terminal 701 to provide mapping information and routeinformation based on exception information received from various userstravelling within a common area. The MCU 703 also delivers a displaycommand and a switch command to the display 707 and to the speech outputswitching controller, respectively. Further, the MCU 703 exchangesinformation with the DSP 705 and can access an optionally incorporatedSIM card 749 and a memory 751. In addition, the MCU 703 executes variouscontrol functions required of the terminal. The DSP 705 may, dependingupon the implementation, perform any of a variety of conventionaldigital processing functions on the voice signals. Additionally, DSP 705determines the background noise level of the local environment from thesignals detected by microphone 711 and sets the gain of microphone 711to a level selected to compensate for the natural tendency of the userof the mobile terminal 701.

The CODEC 713 includes the ADC 723 and DAC 743. The memory 751 storesvarious data including call incoming tone data and is capable of storingother data including music data received via, e.g., the global Internet.The software module could reside in RAM memory, flash memory, registers,or any other form of writable storage medium known in the art. Thememory device 751 may be, but not limited to, a single memory, CD, DVD,ROM, RAM, EEPROM, optical storage, magnetic disk storage, flash memorystorage, or any other non-volatile storage medium capable of storingdigital data.

An optionally incorporated SIM card 749 carries, for instance, importantinformation, such as the cellular phone number, the carrier supplyingservice, subscription details, and security information. The SIM card749 serves primarily to identify the mobile terminal 701 on a radionetwork. The card 749 also contains a memory for storing a personaltelephone number registry, text messages, and user specific mobileterminal settings.

While the invention has been described in connection with a number ofembodiments and implementations, the invention is not so limited butcovers various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements, whichfall within the purview of the appended claims. Although features of theinvention are expressed in certain combinations among the claims, it iscontemplated that these features can be arranged in any combination andorder.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising facilitating a processing ofor processing (1) data, (2) information or (3) at least one signal, the(1) data, (2) information or (3) at least one signal based, at least inpart, on the following: a processing of travel information associatedwith a plural number of devices for comparison against predeterminedoriginal route information; a detection of at least one exception by aplurality of the devices based, at least in part, on the comparison,wherein the at least one exception represents a deviation by theplurality of the devices from a route indicated in the predeterminedoriginal route information; and a processing of the at least oneexception to cause, at least in part, updating of at least a portion ofmapping information at a network based server.
 2. A method of claim 1,wherein the (1) data, (2) information or (3) at least one signal arefurther based, at least in part, on the following: a processing of thepredetermined original route information to identify one or more roadsegments, one or more path segments, or a combination thereof; and areaweighting information based, at least in part, on a categorization ofthe one or more road segments, the one or more path segments, or acombination thereof, wherein the updating of the at least a portion ofthe mapping information is based, as least in part, on the areaweighting information.
 3. A method of claim 2, wherein thecategorization of the one or more road segments, the one or more pathsegments, or a combination thereof is based, at least in part, ontraffic volume, traffic capacity, types of nearby points of interest,types of uses, or a combination thereof.
 4. A method of claim 1, whereinthe (1) data, (2) information or (3) at least one signal are furtherbased, at least in part, on the following: at least one determination tocategorize the plurality of the devices based, at least in part, on oneor more characteristics of the plurality the devices, one or morecharacteristics of one or more users of the plurality of the devices, ora combination thereof; and user weighting information based, at least inpart, on the categorization of the plurality of the devices, wherein theupdating of the at least a portion of the mapping information is based,as least in part, on the user weighting information.
 5. A method ofclaim 4, wherein the (1) data, (2) information or (3) at least onesignal are further based, at least in part, on the following: trustinformation associated with each of the plurality of the devices,wherein the user weighting information is further based, at least inpart, on the trust information.
 6. A method of claim 1, wherein the (1)data, (2) information or (3) at least one signal are further based, atleast in part, on the following: type information, reason information,or a combination thereof of the at least one exception; and a processingof the type information, the reason information, or a combinationthereof to determine exception weighting information, wherein theupdating of the at least a portion of the mapping information is based,at least in part, on the exception weighting information.
 7. A method ofclaim 1, wherein the (1) data, (2) information or (3) at least onesignal are further based, at least in part, on the following: at leastone determination of whether a number of the at least one exception thatis detected exceeds at least one threshold value, wherein the updatingof the at least a portion of the mapping information is based, as leastin part, on determination with respect to the at least one thresholdvalue.
 8. A method of claim 7, wherein the at least one threshold valueis based, at least in part, on traffic volume information associatedwith one or more road segments, one or more path segments, or acombination thereof indicated in the travel information, thepredetermined original route information, or a combination thereof.
 9. Amethod of claim 1, wherein the (1) data, (2) information or (3) at leastone signal are further based, at least in part, on the following:temporal information associated with the at least one exception, whereinthe updating of the at least a portion of the mapping information isbased, as least in part, on the temporal information.
 10. A method ofclaim 1, wherein the (1) data, (2) information or (3) at least onesignal are further based, at least in part, on the following: aprocessing of the predetermined original route information to identifyone or more road segments, one or more path segments, or a combinationthereof; and area weighting information based, at least in part, on anumber of exceptions detected at each of the identified one or more roadsegments, the one or more path segments, or a combination thereof,wherein the updating of the at least a portion of the mappinginformation is based, as least in part, on the area weightinginformation.
 11. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and atleast one memory including computer program code for one or moreprograms, the at least one memory and the computer program codeconfigured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus toperform at least the following, process or facilitate a processing oftravel information associated with a plural number of devices forcomparison against predetermined original route information; determineat least one exception based, at least in part, on the comparison,wherein the at least one exception represents a deviation by a pluralityof the devices from a route indicated in the predetermined originalroute information; and process or facilitate a processing of the atleast one exception to cause, at least in part, updating of at least aportion of mapping information at a network based server.
 12. Anapparatus of claim 11, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:process or facilitate a processing of the predetermined original routeinformation to identify one or more road segments, one or more pathsegments, or a combination thereof; and determine area weightinginformation based, at least in part, on a categorization of the one ormore road segments, the one or more path segments, or a combinationthereof, wherein the updating of the at least a portion of the mappinginformation is based, as least in part, on the area weightinginformation.
 13. An apparatus of claim 12, wherein the categorization ofthe one or more road segments, the one or more path segments, or acombination thereof is based, at least in part, on traffic volume,traffic capacity, types of nearby points of interest, types of uses, ora combination thereof.
 14. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein theapparatus is further caused to: determine to categorize the plurality ofthe devices based, at least in part, on one or more characteristics ofthe plurality of the devices, one or more characteristics of one or moreusers of the plurality of the devices, or a combination thereof; anddetermine user weighting information based, at least in part, on thecategorization of the plurality of the devices, wherein the updating ofthe at least a portion of the mapping information is based, as least inpart, on the user weighting information.
 15. An apparatus of claim 14,wherein the apparatus is further caused to: determine trust informationassociated with each of the plurality of the devices, wherein the userweighting information is further based, at least in part, on the trustinformation.
 16. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein the apparatus isfurther caused to: determine type information, reason information, or acombination thereof of the at least one exception; and process orfacilitate a processing of the type information, the reason information,or a combination thereof to determine exception weighting information,wherein the updating of the at least a portion of the mappinginformation is based, at least in part, on the exception weightinginformation.
 17. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein the apparatus isfurther caused to: determine whether a number of the at least oneexception that is detected exceeds at least one threshold value, whereinthe updating of the at least a portion of the mapping information isbased, as least in part, on determination with respect to the at leastone threshold value.
 18. An apparatus of claim 17, wherein the at leastone threshold value is based, at least in part, on traffic volumeinformation associated with one or more road segments, one or more pathsegments, or a combination thereof indicated in the travel information,the predetermined original route information, or a combination thereof.19. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein the apparatus is further causedto: determine temporal information associated with the at least oneexception, wherein the updating of the mapping information is based, asleast in part, on the temporal information, temporal informationassociated with the one or more exceptions, wherein the updating of theleast a portion of the mapping information is based, as least in part,on the temporal information.
 20. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein theapparatus is further caused to: process or facilitate a processing ofthe predetermined original route information to identify one or moreroad segments, one or more path segments, or a combination thereof; anddetermine are weighting information based, at least in part, on a numberof exceptions detected at each of the identical one or more roadsegments, the one or more path segments, or a combination thereof,wherein the updating of the at least a portion of the mappinginformation is based, as least in part, on the area weightinginformation.